The 12 Best Pre-Workout Supplements of 2026: Athlete and Expert Approved

Pre-workout formulas combine carefully selected ingredients, such as caffeine and beta-alanine to deliver a fast, noticeable boost in energy, focus, and endurance when it matters most. These supplements offer a great way to train harder, finish stronger, and elevate fitness routines even within packed schedules. While we think a balanced diet is the best way to gain energy for exercise, a pre-workout supplement can give you an edge.

Why Trust Fortune

Our team of expert testers has tried hundreds of the most popular supplements on the market today, using our comprehensive supplement testing methodology to find the best products for all folks.  

Best Pre-Workouts of 2026

• Best Pre-Workout Overall: Transparent Labs Bulk 
• Best Tasting Pre-Workout: Swolverine Non-Stim Pre-Workout
• Best Sugar-Free Pre-Workout: Jüced Pre-Workout Energy Gummies
• Best Non-Stim Pre-Workout: Legion Pulse Naturally Sweetened & Flavored Stim-Free Pre-Workout
• Best Budget Pre-Workout: Nutricost Pre-X Pre-Workout 
• Best Pre-Workout for Beginners: Jacked Factory Nitrosurge 
• Best Tasting Pre-Workout: Kaged Pre-Workout Elite Series
• Best Pre-Workout for Athletes: Pre Lab Pro Pre-Workout 
• Best Clean Pre-Workout: Naked Nutrition Naked Energy 
• Best Pre-Workout for Weight Loss: Cellucor C4 Pre-Workout
• Best Pre-Workout Gummies: Savor Pre-Workout Gummies
• Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout 

Best Pre-Workouts Comparison Table

Pre-Workout	Caffeine Per Serving	Beta-Alanine Per Serving	Citrulline Per Serving	Sweeteners Used
Transparent Labs Bulk	275 mg	4000 mg	8000 mg	Stevia extract
Swolverine Non-Stim Pre-Workout	0 mg	3200 mg	5000 mg	Stevia
Jüced Pre-Workout Energy Gummies	95 mg	0 mg	0 mg	Reb M
Legion Pulse Naturally Sweetened & Flavored Stim-Free Pre-Workout	0 mg	3600 mg	8000 mg	Stevia, erythritol
Nutricost Pre-X Pre-Workout	300 mg	2000 mg	4000 mg	Sucralose
Jacked Factory Nitrosurge	360 mg	3200 mg	6000 mg	Sucralose
Kaged Pre-Workout Elite Series	388 mg	3200 mg	10000 mg	Stevia, sucralose
Pre Lab Pro Pre-Workout	80 mg	0 mg	2200 mg	Monk fruit extract, stevia, and erythritol
Naked Nutrition Naked Energy	200 mg	2000 mg	0 mg	none
Cellucor C4 Pre-Workout	150 mg	2000 mg	1200 mg	Sucralose, artificial flavors
Savor Pre-Workout Gummies	75 to 300 mg	340 mg	300 mg	Sugar
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout	175 mg	1600 mg	750 mg	Sucralose, artificial flavors

Transparent Labs Bulk
Caffeine Per Serving	275 mg
Beta-Alanine Per Serving	4000 mg
Citrulline Per Serving	8000 mg
Sweeteners Used	Stevia extract
Swolverine Non-Stim Pre-Workout
Caffeine Per Serving	0 mg
Beta-Alanine Per Serving	3200 mg
Citrulline Per Serving	5000 mg
Sweeteners Used	Stevia
Jüced Pre-Workout Energy Gummies
Caffeine Per Serving	95 mg
Beta-Alanine Per Serving	0 mg
Citrulline Per Serving	0 mg
Sweeteners Used	Reb M
Legion Pulse Naturally Sweetened & Flavored Stim-Free Pre-Workout
Caffeine Per Serving	0 mg
Beta-Alanine Per Serving	3600 mg
Citrulline Per Serving	8000 mg
Sweeteners Used	Stevia, erythritol
Nutricost Pre-X Pre-Workout
Caffeine Per Serving	300 mg
Beta-Alanine Per Serving	2000 mg
Citrulline Per Serving	4000 mg
Sweeteners Used	Sucralose
Jacked Factory Nitrosurge
Caffeine Per Serving	360 mg
Beta-Alanine Per Serving	3200 mg
Citrulline Per Serving	6000 mg
Sweeteners Used	Sucralose
Kaged Pre-Workout Elite Series
Caffeine Per Serving	388 mg
Beta-Alanine Per Serving	3200 mg
Citrulline Per Serving	10000 mg
Sweeteners Used	Stevia, sucralose
Pre Lab Pro Pre-Workout
Caffeine Per Serving	80 mg
Beta-Alanine Per Serving	0 mg
Citrulline Per Serving	2200 mg
Sweeteners Used	Monk fruit extract, stevia, and erythritol
Naked Nutrition Naked Energy
Caffeine Per Serving	200 mg
Beta-Alanine Per Serving	2000 mg
Citrulline Per Serving	0 mg
Sweeteners Used	none
Cellucor C4 Pre-Workout
Caffeine Per Serving	150 mg
Beta-Alanine Per Serving	2000 mg
Citrulline Per Serving	1200 mg
Sweeteners Used	Sucralose, artificial flavors
Savor Pre-Workout Gummies
Caffeine Per Serving	75 to 300 mg
Beta-Alanine Per Serving	340 mg
Citrulline Per Serving	300 mg
Sweeteners Used	Sugar
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout
Caffeine Per Serving	175 mg
Beta-Alanine Per Serving	1600 mg
Citrulline Per Serving	750 mg
Sweeteners Used	Sucralose, artificial flavors

Best Pre-Workout Overall: Transparent Labs Bulk

Our Thoughts on Transparent Labs Bulk  

We chose Transparent Labs Bulk as our top pick overall because it’s well formulated and clinically dosed. There is 275 mg of caffeine; but the addition of 200 mg of L-Theanine may help prevent some of the jitters that can come with highly caffeinated pre-workout products. The product also has 4,000 mg of beta-alanine, which is the clinically-researched dose and may produce a light tingling sensation (aka paresthesia), which some athletes may enjoy. 

Pete, a registered dietitian, rated the instructions and ease of following them a 5 out of 5. “The instructions are clear, and they provide two options based on your experience with pre-workout powders, specifically the caffeine content in these higher dosed formulas. It’s recommended that you start out by taking half of a scoop to determine your tolerance. Then, if increased intensity is desired, you can take more.”  For reference, the FDA recommends that adults not exceed 400 milligrams of caffeine per day.

Our tester is used to taking pre-workout, saying, “The tingles don’t hit me too hard, but consumers new to pre-workout may feel this a lot more.” He really enjoyed his workout after taking Transparent Labs Bulk. “I felt the muscle pumps from the 8,000 mg of citrulline malate, and I felt energized throughout the whole session. I did a 10-minute warmup, fifteen minutes of strength work (squats), and then a fifteen 15-minute workout of sled push, handstand walks, and rowing.” He rated the side effects a 5 out of 5, having no negative reactions after taking this pre-workout. 

Pete recommends this product as a top-level pre-workout, because it is clinically dosed, has a decent amount of caffeine, and contains solid doses of both citrulline malate and beta-alanine, which have been researched for their performance benefits. “This product would work better for bodybuilders than HIIT/CrossFit/Hyrox athletes because of the pump ingredients,” he said. “I also like that they avoid artificial ingredients, which are prevalent in pre-workout powders.”

Specs

• Servings per container: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.66
• Flavors: Blue Raspberry, Strawberry Lemonade, Tropical Punch, Peach Mango, Strawberry Kiwi, Black Cherry, Watermelon, Pineapple Coconut, Sour Grape
• Caffeine per serving: 200 mg
• Serving size: 1 scoop

Best Tasting Pre-Workout: Swolverine Non-Stim Pre-Workout

Our Thoughts on Swolverine Non-Stim Pre-Workout

When it comes to flavor, you can’t go wrong with Swolverine’s Non-Stim Pre-Workout. This product comes in a Mango Lemonade Flavor that our testers absolutely loved. “You can definitely taste both the mango and lemon flavors,” Pete said, giving the overall taste a 5 out of 5 rating. “The tartness of the lemon flavor really comes through, likely from the inclusion of citric acid in the formula. Overall, the pre-workout is light and refreshing, it mixes easily, and it isn’t too sweet.”

This formula is free of stimulants, so you don’t have to worry about taking this product int he evening. It also includes 3200 milligrams of beta-alanine and 5000 milligrams of citrulline malate, both of which are pretty standard servings compared to the other products on this list. Unique to this product, you also get 1000 milligrams of coconut water powder, which offers some extra hydration benefit.

Pete gave his overall first impression of the product a 5 out of 5 rating. He said the container is pretty standard and the screw top was easy to open and helped prevent spills. This isn’t exactly travel-friendly but the container is comparable to the other products on this list.

“The product dissolved easily in a standard shaker bottle within 60 seconds,” Pete said, rating the mixability a 5 out of 5. “There were no visible chunks or clumping and no further or excessive shaking was required.”

Unfortunately, Swolverine’s pre-workout supplement isn’t the most budget-friendly. It costs about $2.27 per serving, which is more expensive than most of the options on this list. While we love the quality, we understand the price point may not work for everyone. For a more budget-friendly option, we recommend Nutricost’s pre-workout.

Specs

• Servings per container: 25
• Cost per serving: $2.28
• Flavors: Mango Lemonade
• Caffeine per serving: 0 mg
• Serving size: 1 scoops

Best Sugar-Free Pre-Workout: Jüced Pre-Workout Energy Gummies

Our Thoughts on Jüced Pre-Workout Energy Gummies

In some cases, pre-workout supplements can be full of unwanted sugar or artificial sweeteners and flavors. Luckily, that’s not the case for these pre-workout gummies from Jüced. Instead, these contain a bit of Reb M, which is a stevia-derived natural sweetener. These gummies come in both a low sugar and sugar-free version for folks who are looking to avoid extra sweeteners.

“The package looked good,” our tester Tom said, rating his first impression a 4 out of 5. “I like the minimalist design and it is straight to the point. It is small enough to fit in your pocket, and they make the side easily to rip open.” Whereas most gummy supplements come in a large container, these gummies come in small individual packages, making it easy to take a serving on-the-go.

Our tester liked the flavor, though he did note the taste was a little sour due to the lack of sugar. “The flavor was peach, and I could definitely taste the peach flavor,” he explained, rating the taste a 3.5 out of 5. “It was just really strong and sour. I could feel the sour in the corners of my mouth as I was eating the gummy.” For those who want a little more sweetness, we recommend opting for the low-sugar version.

After trying a pack of the gummies, Tom definitely felt the effects, rating them a 4 out of 5. “I feel more energized, because I was feeling tired when I took the gummies,” he said. “After taking a few, I felt more alert and focused.” He did note there was a strong aftertaste, though it wasn’t necessarily bad or unappealing.

All in all, our team liked these Jüced pre-workout gummies and think they make an awesome alternative for folks who don’t want another powder supplement. “It’s the perfect peachy pick-me-up,” our tester added.

Specs

• Servings per container: 28
• Cost per serving: $2.85
• Flavors: Electric Peach
• Caffeine per serving: 95 mg
• Serving size: 1 packet

Best Non-Stim Pre-Workout: Legion Pulse Naturally Sweetened & Flavored Stim-Free Pre-Workout

Our Thoughts on Legion Pulse Naturally Sweetened & Flavored Stim-Free Pre-Workout

Legion Pulse Stim-Free is our favorite stim-free pre-workout, as it combines research-backed ingredients like citrulline, beta-alanine, and betaine for impressive pumps and endurance without using caffeine or artificial additives. Its all-natural, transparent formula supports steady energy, focus, and muscle performance, making it ideal for athletes who want powerful workout effects with no crash. This product has an average 4.7 out of 5 stars overall on the Legion website, including 21,404 verified reviews—needless to say, it’s a fan favorite.

Kayla tested Legion Pulse, rating it a 5 out of 5 on how well it mixes together. She said, “The product mixed in perfectly and wasn’t overly foamy. Thirty seconds is sufficient to get it all dissolved properly.” Kayla mentioned that if shaken for too long, some products can get overly foamy. But this product did great with a sixty second shake test. “The mixture wasn’t gritty, and it fully incorporated into the water. I did this with the one-scoop serving size.”  

When it comes to the instructions for mixing, Kayla wishes it had a bit more detail for users, rating it a 3 out of 5. “This product recommends 10-12 ounces for either one or two scoops … wish it would break down optimal water ratios for how many scoops you would like to do. I think 10-12 is the optimal amount for one scoop but with two it can be a little thick.”  

Our tester tried both the stim-free and the stim version of this pre-workout and thinks there’s no need to do two scoops unless you want more beta-alanine for the tingly feels. “It can be confusing for users when fitness supplements call for more than one scoop, and it can be too much product to mix. I rated it a three for this reason.” 

Kayla loves the Pink Lemonade flavor of Legion Pulse Stim-Free, and tailors the ratio to suit her best. “I don’t like overly sweet drinks, so I add twelve ounces of water, and it tastes great. It’s like a normal pink lemonade drink with a little extra kick of caffeine. I do taste the stevia slightly, but it’s hard to mask that taste once you know it’s there.” She still rated the flavor a 5 out of 5, as this is her go-to pre-workout of choice.

Specs

• Servings per container: ~20
• Cost per serving: $2.50
• Flavors: Fruit Punch, Arctic Blast, Blue Raspberry, Green Apple, Tropical Punch, Strawberry Kiwi, Sour Candy, Grape
• Caffeine per serving: 0 mg
• Serving size: 2 scoops

Best Budget Pre-Workout: Nutricost Pre-X Pre-Workout

Our Thoughts on Nutricost Pre-X Pre-Workout 

Nutricost Pre-X Pre-Workout offers an energy boost with 300 mg of caffeine and B vitamins in every serving, making it a top pick for athletes and lifters who want intensity without spending much. This one only costs about $0.92 per serving if you buy a 60-serving container, which is more affordable than others on this list. Available in fun flavors like Fruit Punch and Blue Raspberry, this product is gluten-free, third-party tested, and delivers solid value for budget-conscious folks who can tolerate high caffeine levels (this product packs 300 milligrams of caffeine per serving).

Kayla tested this product and provided us with her first impressions. “The packaging gives off an impression of budget branding. I’m well aware of the Nutricost brand so it’s not offputting to me.” She says the price is attractive, and it doesn’t come off as cheap. “The packaging is on the larger side for their products, it’s not easy to slip in a purse, but it would fit in a work bag or backpack.” She also notes that the scoop handle is on the longer side, so it can be annoying to fit back in after you’ve dug it out of the tub, especially when first using the product. For this reason, she rated it a 3. 

Our tester did notice some minor side effects after taking this product. “After drinking this product, I had some gurgling in my stomach,” she said. “I didn’t feel uncomfortable or bloated but noticed my stomach doing some aerobatics.” She felt a little buzz with the 300 mg of caffeine, but wishes the formula had more beta-alanine for more of a tingly skin effect, which she loves.

This product includes 2,000 milligrams of beta-alanine, which wasn’t enough for Kayla to experience significant paresthesia (skin tingling). She felt a little bit of tingles but no hot face or itchiness, rating side effects as a 5 out of 5. However, those who aren’t habitual caffeine users are at a higher risk of experiencing unwanted side effects, like an upset stomach or jitters.

After mixing this product, she rated it a 5 out of 5. “I shook it for sixty seconds, and the product mixed in flawlessly. Sixty seconds of mixing is probably a little overkill, but it did well with not foaming up too much and there was zero product left behind swirling in the drink or at the bottom of the shaker.” 

“You can’t beat the price of this product,” Kayla says. “If you are looking for something that tastes good, has a high caffeine percentage, and is affordable, this is the product for you.”

Specs

• Servings per container: 30
• Cost per serving: $0.83
• Flavors: Fruit Punch, Blue Raspberry, Grape
• Caffeine per serving: 300 mg
• Serving size: 1 scoop

Best Pre-Workout for Beginners: Jacked Factory Nitrosurge

Our Thoughts on Jacked Factory Nitrosurge 

We recommend Jacked Factory Nitrosurge for those new to pre-workouts. The energy boost is reliably smooth, and the packaging includes dosing information for both one scoop (beginners) and two scoops (more experienced users). A popular product on Amazon, this pre-workout has an average 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon out of 21,676 reviews. Nitrosurge is ideal for simplicity, safety, and gradual dosing. This is why it’s our top pick for beginners seeking reliable pre-workout support. 

Pete gave Jacked Factory Nitrosurge a 5 out of 5 for taste, particularly the Blue Raspberry flavor. “This product is very sweet and they use both natural and artificial flavors as well as both sucralose and acesulfame potassium to sweeten the product. 9/10 on sweetness.” Pete recommends adding a little extra water if the sweetness is too intense: “I would probably add a bit more water to cut the sweetness level in the future.”  

Although Nitrosurge froths slightly when mixing, Pete reported this quickly disappears, leaving a drink that’s “light and refreshing,” with the blue raspberry flavor especially “great but very sweet”. Overall, Pete’s experience highlights how this pre-workout appeals to those who enjoy vibrant flavors and appreciate options to adjust sweetness to their preference. 

Pete’s experience with Jacked Factory Nitrosurge’s side effects was solid but not perfect, resulting in a 3 out of 5 rating for this category. He noted, “When using the 2-scoop serving size, this product is well-dosed. The main ingredients are caffeine, L-citrulline, L-theanine, beta-alanine, betaine anhydrous, and Con-Cret Creatine HCl.” Pete appreciated the dosing overall but had reservations about caffeine: “I like the dosages of the ingredients in the 2-scoop serving size aside from the amount of caffeine, the two-scoop dose provides 360 mg of caffeine which is a lot.”

Despite the presence of L-theanine, intended to smooth out caffeine’s effects, Pete still reported, “I still had a little bit of the jitters after taking this high of a dose of caffeine.” He also commented on the creatine content: “The 2 grams of creatine is a ‘nice to have’ but isn’t a fully effective 5-gram dose, so you would still need to supplement additionally if creatine is part of your normal routine.” Pete added, “In my opinion, creatine doesn’t need to be in a pre-workout and if it is included, it should be the full 5-gram dose.”

Overall, Pete’s experience suggests Nitrosurge performs well for most users, but beginners should be cautious with the higher caffeine dose and start with a single scoop.

Specs

• Servings per container: 30
• Cost per serving: $0.93
• Flavors: Blue Raspberry, Arctic White, Black Cherry, Cherry Limeade, Grape, Green Apple, Pineapple, Sour Peach Rings, Watermelon
• Caffeine per serving: 180 mg
• Serving size: 1 scoop

Best Tasting Pre-Workout: Kaged Pre-Workout Elite

Our Thoughts on Kaged Pre-Workout Elite Series

Kaged Pre-Workout Elite Series stands out as our pick for best tasting pre-workout, praised by our tester Pete for its sweetness and smooth texture. 

The flavor earns a strong 5 out of 5 rating, primarily due to its sweet profile and clean finish. “I tested the Caribbean Sunrise flavor and it tasted great and very refreshing,” Pete said after mixing up the product. “It has a very tropical flavor, and I could definitely pick out the mango in particular.” He was so impressed with the flavor, in fact, that he said he’d gladly drink this pre-workout on a regular basis. Plus, this product earned a 5 out of 5 for solubility, as it dissolved fully with no chunks, clumping, or settling at the bottom of Pete’s shaker bottle.

Pete also rated this product a 5 out of 5 for side effects, as it stands out as a reliable, gentle and well-balanced option for users seeking clean energy and hydration. “I didn’t have any digestive issues and I felt great during my workout after using this product,” he said. “While I personally didn’t feel any of the jitters or anxiety that may come with this strong of a dose, this may be too intense for most users.” So, we recommend gradually increasing your dosage.

Our tester notes that this pre-workout contains 3,200 milligrams of beta-alanine, which is a strong enough dose for most people to experience a tingling sensation. This isn’t harmful by any means but may not be enjoyable for some folks. “The other noteworthy ingredient dosage is the 388 milligrams of caffeine, making Kaged Pre-Workout Elite one of the most high-stim pre-workout supplements on the market,” Pete explained. “This is almost the full recommended daily allowance of caffeine (about 400 mg per day).” So, be incredibly mindful of your other caffeine intake or minimize the recommended dose if needed.

“This pre-workout, and the amount of L-citrulline is ideal for bodybuilders and strength athletes looking to push their limits in the gym,” Pete said. “This product is meant to seriously increase your blood flow during training, which not only helps to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the muscles but also is a significant driver of hypertrophy or muscle growth.”

Specs

• Servings per container: 20
• Cost per serving: $3.00
• Flavors: Fruit Punch, Cherry Limeade, Strawberry Lemonade, Orange Mango, Caribbean Sunrise
• Caffeine per serving: 388 mg
• Serving size: 1 scoop

Best Pre-Workout for Athletes: Pre Lab Pro Pre-Workout

Our Thoughts on Pre Lab Pro Pre-Workout 

Pre Lab Pro Pre-Workout is a vegan pre-workout that stands out for its moderate amounts of caffeine and clean ingredient profile. Plus, it’s also Informed Sport certified, meaning it’s free of banned substances and ideal for athletes.  

Pre Lab Pro Pre-Workout excels in both mixability and taste, earning a 5 out of 5 for each category. Pete tested this product, saying, “It dissolved easily. There were no chunks and no further shaking required,” highlighting how the powder blends swiftly and effortlessly into water without grittiness or residue. 

Its sweetness also scores top marks: “This product has a moderate sweetness level, and I believe is true to its ‘Natural Berry’ flavor. It doesn’t taste artificial in nature and is lightly sweetened with a combination of monk fruit extract, stevia, and erythritol.” The result is a drink that’s pleasantly balanced, authentic to its berry profile, and suitable for those preferring a natural, non-artificial taste experience.  

Pete also rated the side effects a 5 out of 5, making it an excellent option for athletes who want to avoid common pre-workout discomforts. “The formula favors natural ingredients like the red beet root powder,” making it suitable for those prioritizing clean, plant-based products and those who want to avoid high stimulant levels.  

“No digestive issues, aftertastes, or any other issues when using this product” were reported, per Pete, confirming this product’s reputation as a well-formulated pre-workout without unpleasant side effects for the average adult.

Specs

• Servings per container: 20
• Cost per serving: $2.95
• Flavors: Natural Berry
• Caffeine per serving: 80 mg
• Serving size: 1 scoop

Best Clean Pre-Workout: Naked Nutrition Naked Energy

Our Thoughts on Naked Nutrition Naked Energy 

Naked Nutrition Naked Energy is a minimalist pre-workout supplement, making it our pick for best clean pre-workout, thanks to its simple, pure ingredients without additives, artificial flavoring, or excess sugar. 

This product earned a 5 out of 5 for mixability. “It dissolved well, leaving no chunks or undissolved pre-workout,” Pete said. This supplement blends quickly and completely, leaving a clear solution in the shaker bottle without residue or separation, making it hassle-free to prepare and consume. 

On taste, Pete rates it 3 out of 5, noting: “This is an unflavored product, it doesn’t taste like much. You can tell something is in the shaker bottle but there’s no distinct flavor and it’s not sweet at all.” The unflavored variant offers a neutral profile, which may be ideal for those seeking simplicity, but could potentially be less appealing to folks who prefer a sweet or strong taste. 

Pete rated Naked Nutrition Naked Energy a 5 out of 5 for side effects, describing it as “a very mild pre-workout that provides 200 mg of caffeine but only 2 grams of beta-alanine, 1 gram of creatine, and 1 gram of L-arginine, all three of which are underdosed and won’t provide much benefit based on the scientific literature.” He remarked, “I did notice the caffeine, but it’s a lackluster pre-workout formula overall—but may work well for beginners or people just looking for something caffeinated before their workout.”

This product’s underdosed formula means you are unlikely to experience unpleasant reactions typically associated with higher-stimulant pre-workouts, making it ideal for those seeking a clean, straightforward option. Pete concluded that it is an “underdosed formula aside from the caffeine,” highlighting its mild nature and absence of negative side effects during his testing, which is why it earned top marks in this category. If you’d like a more complex pre-workout with stronger effects, we recommend trying out Nutricost’s Pre-X Pre-Workout.

Specs

• Servings per container: 50
• Cost per serving: $0.89
• Flavors: Unflavored, Fruit Punch, Citrus, Strawberry Lemonade, Cherry Limeade, Watermelon
• Caffeine per serving: 200 mg
• Serving size: ~2 scoops

Best Pre-Workout for Weight Loss: Cellucor C4 Pre-Workout

Our Thoughts on Cellucor C4 Pre-Workout 

Cellucor C4 stands out as a good choice for those who want some potential fat loss benefits, as it includes L-carnitine and Capsimax® cayenne extract (note: Capsimax is a non-FDA-approved ingredient, though it’s generally safe for most adults). Both of these ingredients, commonly found in fat burner supplements, may help support calorie burn during workouts. With 150 mg of caffeine, it provides a noticeable but manageable energy boost—ideal for maintaining stamina without a crash.  

Pete had a great first impression of Cellucor C4, rating it a 5 out of 5. “The product has a custom-made lid with the C4 logo etched into it. The logo itself has a glossy finish and text is a metallic silver. It’s definitely an eye-catching design. The container is very standard for pre-workouts and is travel friendly. It opens and closes easily, and the scoop is provided.” 

Our tester rated this pre-workout 5 out of 5 both for mixability and for taste, praising its ease of preparation and enjoyable flavor profile. For mixability, he notes, “It dissolved quickly and easily. It has a smooth consistency, no chunks, and no foam.” This quick and effortless blending ensures a drink that can be ready to consume in seconds and that provides a pleasant texture throughout.

On taste, Pete says: “I thought this pre-workout tasted pretty good, I could taste the mango flavor but there were other flavors there as well, such as pineapple and strawberry.” 

He described the flavor as distinctly tropical and found it very sweet. He said, “This product was fairly sweet when mixed using the twelve fluid ounces as directed.”  

Pete recommends adjusting to taste: “After my initial test, I ended up adding about 20 ounces of water and found it tasted pretty good at that point, with a moderate level of sweetness. This pre-workout uses both sucralose and acesulfame potassium to sweeten it, which results in a sweet taste.” Overall, he concludes that it “mixed great, the flavor was light and refreshing, it was just a bit too sweet, which is why I added a little extra water.”  

When testing, Pete remarked, “I took this before a morning workout and the 300 mg of caffeine was definitely noticeable. I trained for about one hour and had solid energy throughout the workout and was able to stay mentally engaged as well.” Notably, Pete didn’t experience any digestive issues or weird aftertaste when using this product, rating it a 5 out of 5 for side effects.

For some folks, the cayenne pepper ingredient in this formula can cause stomach unrest or nausea. This ingredient is added for its potential fat-burning properties, however more research is needed to correlate Capsimax and fat loss. If you have any preexisting conditions or have experienced a negative reaction with cayenne pepper in the past, we suggest consulting a medical professional before trying this pre-workout.

Specs

• Servings per container: 30
• Cost per serving: $0.83
• Flavors: Blue Raspberry, Fruit Punch, Watermelon
• Caffeine per serving: 135 mg
• Serving size: 1 scoop

Best Pre-Workout Gummies: Savor Pre-Workout Gummies

Our Thoughts on Savor Pre-Workout Gummies

If you prefer to take your pre-workout supplements in gummy format, Savor Pre-Workout Gummies are a good option. You can customize your dosage and caffeine content by taking from one to four gummies about 15 to 20 minutes before your workout. Each gummy delivers 1 gram of sugar, 75 milligrams of caffeine (one cup of coffee has 95 milligrams), and a small amount of taurine, l-theanine, beta-alanine, betaine HCI, l-citrulline, and l-tyrosine for help with energy and endurance. 

Our tester Pete tried these gummies and appreciated the white resealable pouch and easy-to-read label, giving a 5 out of 5 for his first impression. The directions could not be simpler—you take up to four gummies as needed with enough time for the caffeine to kick in and boost your workout. “The gummies are about half an inch in length and width, and about 1 cm tall,” he said. “The gummy is soft and the recommended serving size is one to four gummies before your workout.”

While Pete enjoyed the softness of the gummies, he wasn’t a huge fan of their “zesty orange” taste. “There is a slight orange flavor but the main taste is just bitterness,” he said, rating the flavor a 2 out of 5. “There is no sugar coating on these gummies.”

Still, aside from a vague orange aftertaste, he didn’t notice any side effects or digestive issues after consuming the pre-workout supplements. And the caffeine kicked in pretty quickly. “I took two gummies, which is a moderate dose, providing 150 milligrams of caffeine,” Pete said, giving the side effects a 4 out of 5. “I did notice the energy boost from the caffeine within 10 to 15 minutes after ingesting.”

Just note that caffeine is most of what you’re getting from these chewy orange blocks, formula-wise. If you want to experience further potential gains, you might want to try a different pre-workout. “While they do include other common ingredients found in pre-workout powders, such as beta-alanine, betaine, and L-citrulline, they are extremely under-dosed in this supplement and won’t have any performance-enhancing benefits,” Pete said.

Specs

• Servings per container: 30 servings (120 gummies)
• Cost per serving: $0.97
• Flavors: zesty orange
• Caffeine per serving: 75-300 mg
• Serving size: 1 to 4 gummies

Best Pre-Workout for Muscle Gain: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout

Our Thoughts on Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout 

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout is a well-balanced supplement for those seeking increased muscle gain, reliable energy, and added performance, thanks to the inclusion of creatine.  

Pete tested out Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard Pre-Workout, rating it a 5 out of 5 for both mixability and taste, citing its impressively smooth blending and enjoyable sweetness. For mixability, he says, “It mixed easily in sixty seconds, leaving behind no chunks or clumping.” The texture stayed smooth throughout, with “no foam or froth when mixed and it’s a light texture,” making for an easy-to-drink pre-workout. 

In terms of flavor, Pete describes the product as “pretty sweet, just on the border of being too sweet, but not quite.” He also says, “This pre-workout is sweetened with both sucralose and acesulfame potassium.” To fine tune the taste, Pete made some modifications: “I added a bit of additional water to help balance out the flavor.” Overall, he found the flavor “light and refreshing” with the level of sweetness being a personal preference that can be easily adjusted. He rated the sweetness a 3 out of 5. 

Pete’s overall thoughts on this pre-workout are that it’s moderately dosed, which is good for folks who are new to using pre-workout or who don’t want a high-stim product. This product also includes 3.3 grams of creatine monohydrate, which is within the clinically-recommended dose. So, if you’re in the market for a new creatine supplement, this product combines two-in-one. He didn’t experience any side effects such as stomach upset, and there was no aftertaste.

Specs

• Servings per container: 30
• Cost per serving: $0.83
• Flavors: Fruit Punch, Blueberry Lemonade, Green Apple, Watermelon Candy
• Caffeine per serving: 175 mg
• Serving size: 1 scoop

Other Pre-Workouts We Tested 

We tested over a dozen pre-workout supplements hands-on in our lab. Here are a few that we considered but didn’t make our list of top picks, and why. 

• We chose not to include Transparent Labs’ Stim-Free Pre-Workout, which Pete tested in the Tropical Punch flavor. It had a strong stevia taste and aftertaste, which wasn’t very palatable. 

How We Tested and Selected the Top Pre-Workouts 

We tested and evaluated pre-workout supplements and scored them on a scale of 1-5 for factors such as first impressions, directions that are easily understood, taste, mixing, side effects, and value. Our testers evaluate the products based on their own individual experiences and preferences. We then review their testing feedback and data to share our findings and recommendations with you.  

Taste and Texture 

Flavor is an important part of our testing process. We ask our testers to provide feedback on the taste, texture, and pleasantness of the flavor of each pre-workout supplement. We rate sweetness on a scale of 1 to 5, based on how strong the sweetness is. A score of 5 is best-tasting, 1 is not drinkable. We also consider texture, and ask our tester to record any grittiness, clumps, frothiness, or conversely, smoothness and creaminess, when tasting the mixed pre-workout drink. 

Formula 

We work with a registered dietitian (RD) during testing to find the most effective and safe pre-workout formulas. We primarily focus on pre-workout supplements without artificial sweeteners and other additives, while prioritizing clinically dosed formulations. 

Mixability  

When mixing pre-workout into a liquid, we prepare the product exactly as advised by the brand. We then pay close attention to how well the powder dissolves, wanting to avoid grittiness in the taste and odd textures, like chunks. 

Third-Party Testing 

We chose pre-workout supplements that have been third-party tested. Third-party testing ensures independent verification of safety, purity, as well as nutrition label accuracy. This helps to reduce the risk of mislabeling or underdosing. Third-party testing also checks for harmful substances such as heavy metals, pesticides, and more for safety. For athletes, third-party testing is paramount to knowing that the pre-workout they’ve chosen does not contain any banned substances. Independent testing and certifications help to build consumer trust. The FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) does not regulate supplements, so it’s vital to have independent testing done to ensure safety, accuracy, and quality. 

Value 

When considering value, we place a higher value on brands that source their ingredients in America and have certifications, such as Informed Choice.

Pre-Workout	Caffeine Per Serving	Third- Party Tested	Cost Per Serving
Transparent Labs Bulk	275 mg	Yes	$1.90
Swolverine Non-Stim Pre-Workout	0 mg	Yes	$2.27
Jüced Pre-Workout Energy Gummies	95 mg	Unknown	$2.85
Legion Pulse Naturally Sweetened & Flavored Stim-Free Pre-Workout	0 mg (stim-free)	Yes	$2.25
Nutricost Pre-X Pre-Workout	300 mg	Yes, though not made clear on website	$1.10
Jacked Factory Nitrosurge	360 mg	Yes	$0.90
Kaged Pre-Workout Elite Series	388 mg	Yes	$3.00
Pre Lab Pro Pre-Workout	80 mg	Yes	$2.00
Naked Nutrition Naked Energy	200 mg	Yes	$0.87
Cellucor C4 Pre-Workout	150 mg	Yes	$1.00
Savor Pre-Workout Gummies	75 to 300 mg	Uknown	$0.97
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout	175 mg	Yes	$1.00

Transparent Labs Bulk
Caffeine Per Serving	275 mg
Third- Party Tested	Yes
Cost Per Serving	$1.90
Swolverine Non-Stim Pre-Workout
Caffeine Per Serving	0 mg
Third- Party Tested	Yes
Cost Per Serving	$2.27
Jüced Pre-Workout Energy Gummies
Caffeine Per Serving	95 mg
Third- Party Tested	Unknown
Cost Per Serving	$2.85
Legion Pulse Naturally Sweetened & Flavored Stim-Free Pre-Workout
Caffeine Per Serving	0 mg (stim-free)
Third- Party Tested	Yes
Cost Per Serving	$2.25
Nutricost Pre-X Pre-Workout
Caffeine Per Serving	300 mg
Third- Party Tested	Yes, though not made clear on website
Cost Per Serving	$1.10
Jacked Factory Nitrosurge
Caffeine Per Serving	360 mg
Third- Party Tested	Yes
Cost Per Serving	$0.90
Kaged Pre-Workout Elite Series
Caffeine Per Serving	388 mg
Third- Party Tested	Yes
Cost Per Serving	$3.00
Pre Lab Pro Pre-Workout
Caffeine Per Serving	80 mg
Third- Party Tested	Yes
Cost Per Serving	$2.00
Naked Nutrition Naked Energy
Caffeine Per Serving	200 mg
Third- Party Tested	Yes
Cost Per Serving	$0.87
Cellucor C4 Pre-Workout
Caffeine Per Serving	150 mg
Third- Party Tested	Yes
Cost Per Serving	$1.00
Savor Pre-Workout Gummies
Caffeine Per Serving	75 to 300 mg
Third- Party Tested	Uknown
Cost Per Serving	$0.97
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout
Caffeine Per Serving	175 mg
Third- Party Tested	Yes
Cost Per Serving	$1.00

How to Find the Best Pre-Workout Brands and Products for You 

Everyone has different pre-workout supplement needs depending on your fitness goals, dietary needs, allergies, and pre-existing health conditions.  

Here’s what to consider when selecting the best pre-workout for you. 

Your Fitness Goals 

Each person and athlete has unique fitness goals, whether it’s building muscle, burning fat, boosting energy, or improving endurance and strength. Because of this, the ideal pre-workout supplement will differ from person to person. To find the best pre-workout for your needs, consider your training intensity, performance goals, and tolerance to stimulants. We also recommend working with a dietitian or your doctor to help find a product and dosage that’s safe for your body.

Flavors 

Just like you may not want an overly earthy greens powder, you should find a pre-workout flavor you genuinely enjoy to make it a more enjoyable, sustainable part of your exercise routine. A great-tasting pre-workout turns your workouts into something you can look forward to, helping you stay committed over time. Finding flavors you like, from fruity blends to candy-inspired options, can make it easier to stick to your fitness routine and support your performance goals. 

Formula 

It’s important to check a pre-workout’s ingredient list and formula before purchasing. Pre-workouts can vary widely in their blends of caffeine, amino acids, boosters, and focus enhancers. Some are high-stimulant for maximum energy, while others are stimulant-free for those who are sensitive or prefer training later in the day. There are also formulas tailored for endurance, strength training, or general performance.  

Cost 

Pre-workout supplements can be expensive, so it’s smart to consider your budget when choosing one for regular use. Formulas with cleaner ingredients, such as those without artificial sweeteners, fillers, or unnecessary additives often cost more due to their quality and ingredient sourcing. 

Third-Party Testing 

Third-party testing independently verifies the safety, purity, and label accuracy of pre-workout supplements since the FDA does not regulate them. This process helps protect you from mislabeling, contamination, and banned substances, while also building trust and giving you confidence in what you’re taking. Independent testing is a key factor in confirming product quality and safeguarding your health. 

Benefits of Pre-Workout 

Taking a pre-workout supplement before exercise may help provide a noticeable boost to both your physical performance and mental drive. These supplements are designed to help you power through tough training sessions by helping enhance energy, focus, and endurance so you can get the most out of every workout. 

• Increased energy: Pre-workouts often contain ingredients like caffeine that can provide an increase in energy, helping stimulate the body and mind.  
• Better focus: Mental clarity and concentration are essential for effective workouts. Caffeine can helps with alertness and focus, while tyrosine may support endurance and makes workouts seem less intense. 
• Muscle gain: Pre-workout may make it easier to train at higher intensities, which over time helps with muscle growth and strength. 

What to Avoid in Pre-Workout 

Some pre-workout supplements contain unnecessary or even harmful ingredients that might outweigh the benefits. Knowing what to watch out for helps you choose a cleaner, safer option for your workouts. 

• Artificial sweeteners: Many pre-workouts use artificial sweeteners for flavor, which can cause digestive discomfort in some people and may have questionable long-term health effects. 
• Fillers: Low-quality supplements sometimes include fillers that add bulk but have no real benefit, reducing their effectiveness. 

• Added sugar: Excess sugar may give a quick energy boost but could cause you to crash later. 
• Proprietary blends: Some products group ingredients into proprietary blends, which hide individual dosages. This lack of transparency makes it hard to know if you’re getting effective amounts or underdosed ingredients. 

Potential Negative Effects of Pre-Workout 

Some of the potential negative effects of pre-workout include jitters, rapid heartbeat, headaches, digestive upset, or trouble sleeping. High doses of caffeine, a common ingredient in many pre-workout formulas, may also cause feelings of anxiety and restlessness. Other ingredients such as beta-alanine may lead to a temporary tingling sensation on the skin. This tingling is harmless, but may be surprising or uncomfortable for new users. 

To minimize the risk of negative effects, it’s best to start with a smaller amount rather than taking a full serving. Beginning with half, or even a quarter, of the recommended dose allows your body to adjust and gives you a chance to see how your body responds. From there, you can gradually increase the dose as needed until you find the right balance for you without unwanted side effects. 

Who Should Not Take Pre-Workout Supplements 

If you have any preexisting conditions or health history, it’s always best to consult a doctor before trying out a new supplement, pre-workout included. Folks with cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, or anxiety disorders may want to avoid taking a pre-workout supplement, as stimulants like caffeine and other ingredients can make these conditions worse. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid these supplements. Additionally, people under eighteen years old should also avoid stimulant-based pre-workouts.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best pre-workout?

Transparent Labs Bulk is our top choice for overall best pre-workout thanks to its scientifically backed formula and properly dosed ingredients. Each serving provides 275 mg of caffeine, balanced with 200 mg of L-Theanine to help minimize jitters and anxiety. You’ll also get 4,000 mg of beta-alanine, enough to support endurance and muscle pump.

When should I take pre-workout?

It’s best to take your pre-workout about twenty to thirty minutes before exercising to give the ingredients time to kick in. This timing helps maximize energy, focus, and endurance during your workout. If your supplement contains stimulants such as caffeine, it’s a good idea to avoid taking it too close to bedtime to prevent sleep disruption.

Does pre-workout actually help?  

According to a 2021 meta-analysis, pre-workout may help for some types of activity, though it’s not a miracle supplement. Currently, there hasn’t been enough research to conclusively determine that pre-workout improves performance. While these products may help some athletes, they’re not an absolute must-have.

Is pre-workout healthy to take?

Pre-workout supplements can be safe for most folks when taken as recommended and chosen from reputable brands with clear ingredient labeling. They often contain well-studied ingredients like caffeine and creatine, which can boost energy and workout performance for many people. 

You may want to avoid taking pre-workout if you are under eighteen, have a heart condition, or high blood pressure. It’s also important to check that the product has been tested by a third party and does not contain any banned or unapproved substances, since these supplements are not regulated by the FDA.

How much caffeine is safe to consume in a day?

One of the main elements of a pre-workout is typically caffeine, so it’s smart to make sure your daily consumption isn’t exceeding recommended amounts—especially if you enjoy a morning cup of coffee in addition. For most adults, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration says up to 400 mg of caffeine in a day should be acceptable, however too much can be harmful. Pay close attention to your daily caffeine count if you think you may be over-consuming.

But, the FDA also notes that people’s ability to tolerate caffeine can vary, and that certain medical conditions and medications can increase sensitivity to the stimulant. They go on to say that women who are pregnant, aiming to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding may wish to talk with their doctor about whether to limit caffeine.